US sportswear firm signs up Mageean

CIARA MAGEEAN has secured the most lucrative sponsorship deal in the history of Irish junior athletics after signing a six-figure deal with sportswear giants New Balance.

The agreement will provide the teenager with flights to and from all competitions, warm weather training and training gear.

“I’m very excited,” she said. “I share many of the same values and philosophies as New Balance and after talking to several of their athletes, I’m excited to race for a brand that has embraced me like a supportive family.”